The global market for breast pumps is anticipated to soar at a CAGR of 8.8% during the period from 2014 to 2020. The market valued at US$1.1 bn in 2013 is projected to reach a valuation of US$2.6 bn by 2020.

The competitive landscape of the global breast pumps market includes players such as Whittlestone Inc., Pigeon Corporation, Royal Philips Electronics NV, Medela AG, NUK USA LLC, Lansinoh Laboratories Inc., Mayborn Group Ltd., Bailey Medical Engineering, Hygeia Medical Group, Ameda AG, and ARDO Medical AG. The competitive landscape witnesses the dominance of the top three market players. In 2013, the top three breast pumps manufacturers accounted for over 75% of the market. These manufacturers are focusing on product innovation and improvement to ensure ease of handling, high level of comfort, and efficient milk expression. Breast pumps with two-phase expression systems support the natural sucking action of the infants. The manufacturers are also paying attention to other attributes such as less noise and different modes of suction pressures. The market players are increasingly partnering with various healthcare providers across the developed economies for the promotion of their brands.

Currently, the market players manufacture four major types of breast pumps: double electric breast pumps, manual pumps, single electric breast pumps, and hospital grade breast pumps. The efficient pumping capacity and the economic nature of double electric breast pumps have led to their increased demand in the market. On the other hand, manual breast pumps are anticipated to register the lowest demand in the near future. “The complicated operating mechanism of the manual breast pumps has made it a low preferred choice among consumers,” states TMR.

Rise in Female Workforce to Support Purchase of Breast Pumps

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 79% of the infants were breastfed across the U.S. in 2011. The growing awareness about breastfeeding, coupled with the increased acceptance of breast pumps has propelled the growth of the global breast pumps market. TMR identifies that increase in disposable income and the rise in female workforce have further augmented the growth of this market. “The decision to purchase breast pumps is highly influenced by different healthcare professionals such as gynecologists, mid wives, pediatricians, and certified lactation consultants,” a TMR analyst states.

Risk of Contamination is a Major Hiccup in the Adoption of Breast Pumps

These pumps are highly recommended under certain conditions such as premature birth, flat or inverted nipples, and breast engorgement. The availability of technologically advanced breast pumps and favorable reimbursement policies, especially in the developed nations have supported the market’s growth. However, the risks of contamination and high prices of breast pumps will play spoilsport in the growth of the market in the near future. The overall breast pumps market has a significant potential to grow across the emerging markets.